A MAN who died in a workplace accident on Monday has been described by his wife as a ‘gentle giant’.

Colin Willoughby, 52, was named by police yesterday after he died when he became trapped under a machine at Graham Engineering Ltd in Nelson. 

Police, firefighters and paramedics were called to the accident at around 3pm, but Mr Willoughby was pronounced dead at the scene. 

In a statement released yesterday, his wife, Jayne, said: “Colin was a strong Goliath yet a gentle giant.”

She went on to say that his death has come as a massive shock to everyone who are all devastated by his death.

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mr Willoughby’s death has been launched by police and the Health and Safety Executive. 

Graham Engineering Ltd also paid tribute to Mr Willoughby, who was a long-standing member of their workforce. A spokesperson said: “We can confirm that a member of our staff was fatally injured in the workplace on Monday.

“We are deeply saddened by this event. He was a very popular and long-serving member of our staff and he will be greatly missed by all of his work colleagues. 

“We will continue to work closely with the Health and Safety Executive, and provide every assistance to the police and other various authorities into the cause of the incident. 

“Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this very difficult time.”

A former colleague of Mr Willoughby said: “He was always busy and always had a smile on his face.

“He was a good listener and consequently you could always have a good debate with him. We’d always end up laughing.

“I’ll always remember Colin. He was just one of those rare people you don’t often meet.”

Three ambulances, a rapid response unit and a senior clinician attended the scene, along with fire and rescue services and the police.

A spokesperson for the police said: “Police attended an industrial accident at Graham Engineering Ltd on Edward Street in Whitewalls industrial estate.

“A man working at the site had become trapped under a piece of machinery and has sadly died. An investigation has now been launched between the Health and Safety Executive and the police.”

Det Ch Insp Jill Johnston, of Lancashire Constabulary’s major incident unit, said: “This is a tragic incident and our thoughts are with Mr Willoughby’s family and friends.

“We are working closely with the HSE to establish the circumstances surrounding Mr Willoughby’s death.”